Gary Compolongo
After reading Ward Churchill’s articles, “Let’s Spread the “fun” around” and “Confronting Columbus Day,” I started thinking about Columbus Day and Sport franchises in a new manner. His extreme views were very persuasive and interesting to read about. It wasn’t until I viewed the video clips in class today that I realized that although his views are very extreme, this man is very passionate about Native Americans and protecting their rights.
His argument on Columbus Day made a very valid point that a lot of people overlook. Christopher Columbus is seen by many people to be a hero and the founder of America, but Churchill brought to attention the fact that Columbus acted in a manner that is not tolerated nowadays. His take over of the Caribbean islands was harsh and would be considered genocide in today’s world. He tortured, starved, and killed many Indians who failed to provide for him. This was the start of conquering and genocides for centuries to come. With comparisons to Hitler and Nazi leader Heinrich Himmler, I started questioning the true relevance of celebrating Columbus Day. Churchill made a very valid point saying that it is not right to celebrate someone who committed genocide if we find it illegal in today’s world. The fact that the United States took so many years to accept these Genocide laws and when in fact did enact them, had to add provisions just shows that America knew they were wrong.
I’ve been watching sports since I was 5 years old. Never once have I even thought about any racism with the names of sport franchises. Although I feel that this article was very extreme and in a sarcastic tone, Churchill did make another valid point. Native American people can find names, mascots, and even cheers offensive to their culture. I probably have never thought much of it because there is no franchise mocking my culture. I do agree with Churchill and think that it wouldn’t be too much to come up with alternative names for the franchises that do offend certain people.
In conclusion Churchill is a very opinionated who brings attention to subjects in a very explosive manner. This manner in which he does so makes people pay attention to what he is saying. Whether right or wrong he is heard.
^ That is a picture of Churchill that really shows his passion for indigenous people’s rights.
